Gralyns Log

Trip Summary

2011-07-20T10:17:00.002+01:00

I have done the initial stats. on our summer cruise.

We were on the boat for 7 weeks and 1 day

We travelled 552 Miles

We went through 279 locks

One Long Tunnel ( Harecastle both ways)

One Short Tunnel ( Newbold)

Two Opened out Tunnels (Armitage & Fenny)

We used 281 ltrs. of diesel

We have been on the Rivers Churnet, Cherwell and Tames.

The canals we have travelled along were:-

Macclesfield Canal

Trent & Mersey Canal

Coventry Canal

BCN

Northern and Southern Oxford Canal

Grand Union Canal.

I didn't get shouted at to slow down.

M still has some washing to do and I have lots of gardening to catch up on.

End Post

Bosley Bottom Lock to High Lane

2011-07-16T21:52:00.004+01:00

Three posts today again as I catch up on the days where an internet connection was not available.

Miles 14.4 Locks 12

We set off at 6.15 this morning as there were several boats who arrived last night pointing our way. We reached the top by 8.00 just as it started to rain. It didn't stop until Bollington and even then there were heavy showers. We had a short wait when we reached our mooring when a boat had to be moved off . I had been checking all week and our mooring was clear so I didn't bother to ring the moorings officer to let him know when we were to get back.

One final panic as we got home I realised I had left my cameras on the roof of the boat so I had to go back to collect them. Good job we are only about 4 Miles from the moorings.

Trip summary will be published as soon as I sort out my GPS which decided to pack in a few miles from home (It gives me the daily mileage)

Ends Post

Barleston to Bosley Bottom Lock

2011-07-16T21:45:00.002+01:00

Miles 22.8 Locks 7
We are on the Macclesfield canal at last. This is the view of Bosley Lock No 12 looking North. 12 locks to go before home.
Waiting to enter Harecastle Tunnel
Leaving Harecastle Tunnel
Who would have thought it would be raining by 9 pm

End Post

Rugely to Barleston

2011-07-16T21:34:00.003+01:00

Miles 18.9 Locks 14
A good run up the Trent and Mersey canal passing through Stone where we were going to stop to look round but the locks were in our favour so we carried on to Barleston to moor near the Wedgwood Visitor Centre. It is also by the railway so there was an additional attraction.
In the sun at Barleston.
End Post

Polesworth to Rugely

2011-07-13T18:40:00.003+01:00

Miles 24.4 Locks 4
Tonights mooring at Rugely
Travelling alongside the A38 between Streethey and Fradley
There had been a gathering of boats at Alvechurch last weekend and most of the old working boats were still there when we passed this morning.
End Post

Hawksbury Junction to Polesworth

2011-07-12T17:41:00.002+01:00

miles 15.7 Locks 12
We are moored on te visitor mooring at the southern end of Polesworth Village. We normally moor at the northern end so we thought we would have a change. There seems to be an interesting walk through the flood meadow we might try after tea.

I have waxed lyrical in the past over the working side pound at lock 6 on the Atherstone locks so here is a photo.

End Post

Napton Junction to Sutton Stop

2011-07-11T17:42:00.002+01:00

Miles 26.7 Locks 3
Our mooring for tonight about 200 yds from Hawksbury Junction where the Northern Oxford Canal meets the Coventry canal North of Coventry. A signal post that was left behind when the Great Central main line was lifted.
Our Mooring neat Napton junction this morning just to prove that those who don't realise that there is a 7 o'clock in the morning
End Post

Banbury to Napton Junction

2011-07-11T17:35:00.002+01:00

Miles 22.3 Locks 21
A double day today with M working us to the summit level of the S Oxford Canaj and G working down the Napton Flight after that long tedious run between Fenny Compton and Marston Doles.
I spotted this pair of cast iron gates at the tail end of the Clayton flight, I have passed through several times but this is the first time I have noticed the gate construction. The gates seal quite well on just the cast iron faces.

End Post

Nell Bridge to Banbury

2011-07-09T19:28:00.002+01:00

Miles 5.4 Locks 3
Welcome James to our Followers
M's delight we are moored right outside BHS
And right by the foot bridge
Two more unusual shots of the boat
we put the cover up in the hope that it would ward off the rain...... but it didn't work
End Blog

Thrupp to Nell Bridge

2011-07-08T17:49:00.004+01:00

Miles 14.5 Locks 10
I wasn't sure whether to catch up with one long update or add one for each day . In the end I chose the latter so scroll down after this post to catch up since we arrived at Abingdon.
Well on the Southern Oxford canal now about 2 hrs cruise from Banbury. At Thrupp we were joind by Bones of canalworld fame up to Bakers lock and later we passed R&R in DICSOVERY No 1 moored at Ahyno. They had stopped because of the Rain. The forecast sunny periods and showers turned into Showers and then rain as the afternoon wore on. Todays pic is of the warning gauge at Bakers lock where the canal joins the River Cherwell. It shows that if the river rose another 2 inches it advises "Navigation With Caution" this at a time when the river is low due to the lack of rain it appears to be far too low in the water to be of practical use. Do I detect an over-cautious approach from BW on River Navigation. They will have to get used to river navigation if they are ever to manage the EA rivers in 2015 when they join the waterways trust. At this showing they will be shutting the rivers to navigation when normal flows return.

End Post

Osney to Thrupp

2011-07-08T17:41:00.002+01:00

Thursday 7 July 2011
Miles 8.5 Locks 6
Our last day on the River Thames and we meet a lock with propper balance beams as we reach Kings lock just before we turn off of the river.
On the 48 hr mooring at Thrupp
Another view of the mooring at Thrupp
End Post

Abingdon to Osney

2011-07-08T17:30:00.002+01:00

Wednesday 6 July 2011
Miles 9 Locks 4
We have moved up to Osney today and instead of visiting Oxford centre we decided to go the other way into Botley. We found that just beyond the laundrette ther were several "Out of Town" style shops and a small shopping precinct in Botley itself.I stopped off at Aldi on the way back from Botley and stocked up the wine celler which had run dry.
Later we walked the Thames path downriver to Folly Bridge then into town to catch the bus bacy to Osney.
Walking up into town from Folly Bridge
On Folly Bridge

The buildings on Folly Br Island

Looking downstream towards Folly Bridge

End Post

3 4 5th July at Abingdon

2011-07-08T17:27:00.002+01:00

Lazy days at Abingdon with one day visitingOxford on the bus . No pics as we were just sitting by the boat reading or watching the world go by.
End Post

Long Wittenham to Abingdon

2011-07-02T20:14:00.002+01:00

This is the first time I have had a connection good enough to post the blog with pics so her goes with an update since reading.
Miles 5.5 Locks 2
We did get to see the Pendon railway Museum but it was only a fleeting visit arranged by the landlady of the Plough Pub after she told us we couldn@t stay on the mooring s this afternoon as a wedding reception had been booked and the mooring was required by the 100ft Salter Steamer that was delivering the guests to the pub. The asked one of the Pendon volounteer operators if we could enter earlier than the published opening time of 2 pm We had a threequarter hour guided tour with lots of looking into areas not usually seen and we were given complementary tickets as well. The donation I made was generous.
http://www.pendonmuseum.com/

End Post

Wallingford to Long Wittenham

2011-07-02T19:57:00.004+01:00

Miles 8.7 Locks 2
Friday 1 July 2011
We have come up the weir stream to the moorings at the Plough with the intent of visiting the Pendon Railway Museum tomorrow afternoon. The museum only opens at weekends in the afternoon and a bit of planning was needed to be in the right place at the right time and get a mooring. So far so good.

On our way between Days lock and Clifton Hamdon we spotted this little gem.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/l/littleegret/index.aspx

End Post

Goring to Wallingford

2011-07-02T19:48:00.005+01:00

Thursday 30/6/11
Miles 6.2 Locks 2
We stopped at Wallingford again as the laundrette is so close to the moorings and M says that the machines complete the wash quite quickly. I had my first lesson at driving a Laundretted machine but I think I will need lots more training before I am left to do it myself - then there arethe dryers!!!
The pub where we ate that evening.

Moored on the opposite bank to the pub.

End Post

Reading to Goring

2011-06-29T16:58:00.006+01:00

Miles 11.2 Locks 3
We are just two stations up the line from Reading At Goring. We stopped for a brief chat with R&S from Calluna just downstream of Mapledurham Lock.

Boats passing at Goring

Swans black and white as we left Reading

End Post.

Wargrave to Reading

2011-06-28T18:23:00.003+01:00

Miles 6.5 Locks 2
An even shorter day than we had originally planned by starting from Wargarve rather than Henley. Rain threatened all day and finally came as a thunder storm whilst we were on the bus into Reading from the Tesco moorings. Two views of the River Kennett as it passes through the Orical Centre.
Looking Upstream
Looking Downstream
End Post

Maidenhead to Henley to Wargrave Marshes

2011-06-28T18:10:00.004+01:00

Monday 27 June 2011
Miles 15.5 Locks 7
We should have stayed in bed today but it started out hot so we set off hoping that our travelling on the river would give a cool breeze. No, Boulters lock failed after we had entered and we had to wait for a temporary fix to get us up to the next level. This had a nock on effect with long waits at all the other locks. We didnt reach Henley untill 5.30 and we were feeling pooped by then and settled down to have tea. Then we discovered that the overnight mooring fee was GBP 40.00 because it was " Regatta Week" nothing going on other than high mooring charges. After Tea we moved up through Marsh Lock and moored on the Wargarve Marshes and sat out untill about 10 pm. Henleys loss, I wonder how many other boats just passed through rather than pay an exorbitant fee, and not spending in the town too. Boris would be Fuming if he was still their MP.
End Post.

Windsor to Maidenhead

2011-06-28T17:46:00.004+01:00

Sunday 26 June 2011
Miles 6.9 locks 2
This is a view of Brunel's brick railway bridge at Maidenhead. actually i is in the centre as the bridge has been widened on either side since originally being built.
The scene at Boulters lock on a hot Sunday afternoon

The lock has filled with boats and the gatesare closing

The boats entering the lockwe had moored in the shade just below the lock and went for a stroll into the town centre. It was nice to go into the air-conditioned shops.
End Post

At Windsor

2011-06-25T16:15:00.003+01:00

We are spending the day in Windsor and there is a Fete in the gardens nearby. As the afternoon progresses the sun is coming out and M has gone to watch the Duck Race.

End Post

Walton To Windsor

2011-06-24T18:15:00.004+01:00

FRIDAY 24 June 2011

Miles 16.1 Locks 6

We are deffinately in big boat country. Our neighbour at the Baths Island Moorings at Windsor.

We shared Romney Lock with this work barge and its pusher/puller tugs , it took them ages to get the tow into the lock. We had to be up front too which made for rough water as the lock was filled.
The lock at Old Windsor was set for "Self Operate" and M brought the boat into the lock whilst I pressed the buttons.

Cool Kiddie is M

End Post

Hampton Court to Walton on Thames

2011-06-23T19:43:00.003+01:00

Miles 4.9 Locks 2
A late start today as we had to wait untill 10 o,clock before we could visit the gardens at Hampton Court Palace. They were very interesting The view down the long lake had been spoilt by the temperory bridges that have been built for the RHS Flower Show that will be on in early July. It was fascinating though to see the early stages of the show gardens.

We set off back up the river after lunch and got caught by the "Self Operate"on the first lock at Molesy. We made it through though with the help of the crew of a boat waiting to come down.

We have also discovered Walton on Thames, we did not want to go toofar today as the availability of moorings is limited and to get to Runnymead would have meant operating Bell Weir lock ourselves, and I didn't fancy that so we stopped quite early on the 24 hr moorings at Walton and walked into town. We were supprised by the amount of shops there were quite a selection of the main high street stores. Lots of pubs too - there are three all by one another on the river by the moorings
Moorings at Walton on Thames
End Post

Windsor to Hampton Court

2011-06-22T22:31:00.003+01:00

Miles 20.2 Locks 8
We had given up making Hampton Court today because of the rain. The day started ok in Windsor but got bad by Staines. We moored on the 24 hr mooring at Lalham and settled down for the day. After about 2 hours the weather improved and we set off again reaching H.C. by 6 pm. Todays pic is of the bridge at Hampton Court lookin up river.
We are hoping that the weather will be good enough to let us visit the gardens tomorrow.
Yesterday we visited the British Museum - One day is not enough - and the crowds don't help. Took M on a shopping therapy trip to BHS on Oxford Road. We went into London by train from Windsor and then used our bus passes to move around. The info at bus stops and on the busses is fab - wish it were that good in G.M.
End Post

Marlow to Windsor

2011-06-19T18:56:00.003+01:00

Miles 13.6 Locks 4
We have reached Windsor and as we passed the station approach a train from Slough came in.
This is the grand entrance to the station now a shopping centre and the railway reduced to one platform and line.
I said in the last post that there were no other views to snap of Marlow. The lock entrance view proves the point.
We will be spending a few days at Windsor so a daily update may not be necessary. If anything exciting happens then I may post a report.
End Post

Reading to Marlow

2011-06-18T19:04:00.009+01:00

Miles 16.4 Locks 6
It is hard trying to get another shot of Marlow from the moorings than this scene. I am sure that it is very similar to last years picture.
The regatta course at Henley, there was a regatta taling place on the lower part for lady rowers.
Here they are waiting to be called forward for their race
We have not mentioned red kites so far this trip and as we have been seeing them since Lower Heyford they have become quite ubiquitous but at Henley there were at least a dozen circling the centre of the town so out came the camera and out of view went the kites as you can see only one in the picture.
End Post

Pangbourne to Reading

2011-06-17T18:53:00.003+01:00

Miles 7 Locks 2

Today's post was only going to be a quick position report. Rain most of the day kept the cameras inside. Just as I was getting the computer out to make the post we had this visitor.

We are mored on Kings Meadow outside the Reading Tesco store. There are buses into the town centre from here (no 41) and we managed to spend a couple of hours in town between showers.
Once again we travelled with the cover up - it dosn't half make a difference. Just heared from R+R on DICSOVERY No1 who are at Clifton Lock as all the moorings on Oxford and Abingdon
are full because of the weather - no one seems to want to move in the rain.

End Post

Wallingford to Pangbourne Meadow

2011-06-16T18:04:00.003+01:00

Miles 10.6 Locks 3
we have been travelling with out hood up again as the rain started just as we were setting off. This is what it looks like. Taken at Cleeve Lock
The weather cleared up as we arrived at Pangbourne meadow so we went for a walk into Whitchurch. Seen below from the toll bridge.
Not much in Whitchurch other than two fine looking pubs so we didn't stay long. We made our way back across the toll bridge into Pangbourne where most of the shops and facilities seem to be. It has pubs too one of which is shown below
End Post

Abingdon to Wallingford Via Dorchester

2011-06-15T13:05:00.006+01:00

15/6/2011
Dorchester to Wallingford
Miles 4.2 Locks 1
A short run into Wallingford for our first trip to the laundrette. Moored on the opposite side to the town as we did last year. Shortly after lunch we had a quick chat with C&D from San Seriffe who were travelling upstream hoping to get to Abingdon today.

Wallingford Bridge looking downstream.

14/6/2011
Abingdon to Dorchester
Locks 5 Miles 10.5
Before we left Abingdon we went up the lock for water and then turned to go back downstream.

The trees have been pollarded along the river giving a view seldom seen.

We had hoped to moor above days lock and walk into Dorchester but they were full. We found a spot bu the junction with the River Thame wich proved to be a shorter walk into the town.

Our Secluded overnight Moorings

End Post

At Abingdon. Visit to Didcot Railway Centre

2011-06-13T15:55:00.004+01:00

Its not often tht we find the moorings alongside the swimming pool full when we arrive at Abingdon but is was yesterday. Todays boaty pic shows us moored on the eastern bank for a change.

And now on to the visit to Didcot Railway Centre. As you can guess or already know it has a very heavy bias to all things GWR so imagine my suprise when this dedicated LNER follower spotted this loco outside the shed.---- TORNADO 60163 in Brunswick Green even . What a treat.

A close inspection of the running lamps will show that all things on this modern loco are High Tec --- LED parafine lamps
I will post a set of pictures on Photo Bucket later today and attach a link to this post for you to see more of Tornado and some of the GWR locos in the running shed and restoration workshops.

Photo link Here http://s249.photobucket.com/albums/gg209/Gralyn2008/Didcot%20Railway%20Centre/?start=all

End Post

Battened Down in Abingdon

2011-06-12T18:33:00.003+01:00

Osney to Abingdon
Miles 9.2 Locks 4
As the post title suggests after a morning trip in the rain we moored at in Abingdon, put the remaining covers on, lit the fire and settled down to weather out the rain. I have loosened the mooring ropes in case the river rises, had dinner and will watch a DVD this evening. We travelled with the cover up for the first time today and it had earned its keep. With the sides off and the front and back windows rolled up we stayed relatively dry. Rope work at the locks was easy to do but I will have to wait for a wet day moving up river to see how well it works then. The forecast is for AM drizzel tomorrow so I will get the bus to the Didcot Railway Centre. There will be plenty of pictures I am sure. Most will be posted on Photobucket with a link from the blog.
This chap was seen by Newnham Rail Bridge http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/c/cormorant/index.aspx
and later on one of these.
http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/t/tuftedduck/index.aspx

End Post

Thrupp to Osney

2011-06-11T17:50:00.005+01:00

Miles 5.5 Locks 6
At last we are on the Thames. Moored at Osney. A short bus trip from the centre of Oxford. This afternoon we went for a look round the shops and sites.

One of the "Dreaming Spires"

Leaving Godstow Lock

The upstream and downstream views of the lock on Dukes cut.

Nearly lost the chimney when I went to get my camera to take this shot.

End Post

Nell Bridge to Thrupp

2011-06-10T20:31:00.003+01:00

Miles 15.7 Locks 10
I am writing this blog update in the Jolly Boatman at Thrupp. For those of the Canalworld Forum, Maffi and Bones are sat at the table opposite talking with friends. We were away early from Nell Bridge to get to Ahyno wharf for diesel and water. The rest of the run down was in showers and sunny spells. After Pidgeon Lock M remembered we had some cherries left so we ate them and scattered the stones along the off side bank - so if there are a row of cherry trees there in 20 years time remember "Gralyn was here". Thrupp Visitor moorings were chocker so we had to squeeze in just past the pub as you can see in tonight's picture.

End Update

Banbury to Nell Bridge

2011-06-09T18:59:00.002+01:00

Miles 5.2 Locks 3

As the title says we are at Nell Bridge which is about 5 miles south ob Banbury. After one and a half days in Banbury we decided to carry on towards the Thames. It got us away from the shops ( we were moored about 50 Yds from BHS) and as we want to stop and refuel at Ahyno tomorrow we did not want to go too far.

Tonight's picture is of the Lock at Banbury looking back at the Castle Quays shopping complex.

End post

Napton to Cropready to Banbury (Plus Pic Catchup)

2011-06-08T15:15:00.007+01:00

Wednesday 8/6/2011
Miles 4 Locks 3
We arrived in Banbury at 9.0 am this morning after a quick run down from Cropready. Each of the three locks was full and the top gates were open so we were able to just sail in, close the gate and top paddles and start down. Last time we were in Banbury I posted a picture of the Lady on th White Horse. This time you get the Cross itself.

Tuesday 7/6/2011
Napton to Cropready
Miles 15.7 Locks 18
A day dominated by the windy top level of the southern Oxford Canal summit. At least the weather was fine for the rise up the Napton locks but it the turned into instant heavy showers all the way down to Cropready. The evening is being spent in Glorious sunshine doing nothing.

Napton Bottom Lock
Travelling alonside the West Coast Main Line Near Ansty
The Welcoming Pipe Band at Hawksbury Junction

End Post

Brinklow to Napton

2011-06-06T20:27:00.002+01:00

Miles 21.3 Locks 3
Woken at 3.30am by the invertor alarm going off, there is deffinately something wrong with the batteries - after changing the invertor it was the same Found one battery with bulging sides and ends so that could be the culprit. Removed the dud and set off towards Braunston where we hope to get two new batteries. We stopped breifly at the southern portal of Newbold Tunnel to dispose of our rubbish and as it was planned as a "Flying stop" I hauled up in the nearby bridgehole. Lo and behold there on the moorings not 20 Yds away was Roy outside his boat DISCOVERY No.1 so we stopped for longer and exchanged news. Hillmorton locks were all in our favour after bidding Roy and Ruth farewell. At Braunston we managed to get two new leisure batteries and stopped by Br 99 to fit them and then had a charging run to the visitor moorings below Napton locks.

Still poor signals so will have to wait to catch up on pictures.

Atherton to Brinklow

2011-06-05T17:08:00.003+01:00

Miles 20.6 Locks 10
A good cruise on the top level of the Coventry Canal with a welcome at Sutton stop (Hawksbury Junction) of a Scotish Pipe Band. We didn't stay long however as we wanted to get to Brinklow tonight. Poor signal tonight, I will upload today's photos when I have a better signal.

Barleston to Atherton Lock 2

2011-06-04T13:50:00.007+01:00

Two days again as there was no signal last night. This update is being done at Fazely in the afternoon as I am not sure where we will be tonight. Those of you who know the canals will notice we are no longer on our way to Lincoln but have decided to go to the Thames instead.

Saturday 4th June 2011
Armitage to Atherton Lock 2
Miles 23.1 Locks 7
Not so hot today. we had a quick passage through Fradley and stoped at Streethey wharf for diesel and managed to get a decent photograph of "Milton Maid" now being used as a floating pontoon, a real climbdown from her pottery carring days on the Caldon Canal. At least she is still in use, we passed the sites of the factories she served a few days ago and they are either demolised and having housing built on the site of brownfield sites awaiting development.
Friday 3rd June
Barleston to Bridge 56 just south of Armitage.
Miles 23 Locks 15
The picture for today is the cafe alongside Heywood Lock

The Caldon Trip

2011-06-03T16:46:00.009+01:00

Thur 2nd June 2011

SBC to Barleston

Miles 13.2 Locks 15

A nice sunny day and we come to the end of our short trip on the Caldon Canal. After a stop at Etruria services we finally set of down the Trent and Mersey canal towards our goal of Lincoln and Boston. Th Caldon canal must be a dream for hire boaters, we counted up the features that one would hope to meet on a canal holiday and the Caldon ticks all the boxes except one – there atr no Swing Bridges. It does have Lift bridges both automatic and manual, staircase and normal locks, a tunnel, an aqueduct both under and over and a river section. Beat That in 17 miles. Oh and a Steam Railway running alongside if you get boored.

The staircase at the start of the Caldon Canal

1^st June 2011

Constall Forge to Stoke on Trent Boat Club.

Miles 6.6 Locks 7

The first day without rain on this trip. We made a short run up the River Churnet to Cheddleton to watch the 10.30 departure on the Churnet Valley Railway. Then up to the summit level of the Caldon Canal to stop by the Stoke Boat Club Arm at Endon. They have invited the visiting NCCC crews to join them on their weekly meeting. They had visited the NCCC at High Lane just after Easter.

10.30 departs Cheddleton

31 May 2011

Holly Bush to Constall Forge

Miles 4.7 Locks 4

Although we managed to get the covers down and set off in the dry it soon started to rain again. It didn't stop until we had passed through the two locks a Cheddleton but the weather managed to improve as we made our way down the River Churnet to Constall Forge where a very pleasant afternoon was spent outside the Black Lion Pub. We also had our evening meal in The Black Lion, quite enjoyable too. The pic is of us moored near the Black Lion at Consell Forge.

One for the watchers from RMRM, there is a prototype for everything. Seen on the CVR at Consall

30 May 2011

Engine Lock to the Holly Bush Pub

Miles 6.4 Locks 8

A day of rain. There are some interesting sculptures on the side of some of the Stockton Brook locks that were not there when we last came up the Caldon in 2007. I had never noticed th working side pound paddle on the lower of the Hazelhurst locks and couldn't resist trying it out. The lock is also unusual as it fills from the side rather than with a rush from the top end. The Top lock of the flight is the same as is Engine lock which was the last lock we did yesterday.

Moored Above Engine Lock

Br 86 Macclesfield Canal to Engine Lock Caldon Canal

2011-05-29T14:13:00.005+01:00

28 May 2011
Miles 8.1 Locks 1 Long Tunnels 1
An early start today as we both were awake by 6am so we decided to set off early. After taking on water at Hall Green we carried on to the North end of Harecastle Tunnel where we were told that there would be a wait of about 40 mins for the northbound passage to emerge. Almost spot on time the tunnel was ready and we set off only to get a fisherman's keep net round the prop before we had even entered the tunnel. Quick work down the weed hatch and we were away loosing two places in the southbound convoy. The passage went smoothly but it was raining quite hard as we emerged from the southern portal. A quick scramble into our wet weather gear was rewarded by the rain stopping and we moored up close to the Toby Restaurant at China Gardens. Pictures tonight are of our mooring at Bridge 86 on the Macc with Mo Cop in the background and the northern end of the Harecastle Tunnel.

29 May 2011

Miles 6.5 Locks 4
Another relatively short day but not without incedent. I had to clear the bottom lock of the Bedford St staircase of 3 ducklings before we could use the lock, I also took the oportunity to take down the chimney in anticipation of the low bridges just before the Ivy House lift bridge, it turned pout to be unnecessary we got through with plenty of clearence. Down the weedhatch once again as we pulled up at the lift bridge - this time a piece of someone's zipper jacket.

Todays pic is of the lift bridge above Engine lock on the Caldon.

High Lane to Br 86 Macclesfield Canal

2011-05-27T21:26:00.002+01:00

Miles 22.4 Locks 12
We have set off on our summer cruise. the first part is with the NCCC Commodor's cruise to the caldon canal. the higlight of today was the decent of Bosley locks in a decent tim of 1hr 50 Mins and a cruise in the late evening sunshine to bridge 86. Tomorrow will take us to China Gardens in Stoke on Trent after the passage of the Harecastle tonnel.

Notebook Test

2011-05-25T12:49:00.003+01:00

Just having a Senior Moment. I couldn't remember if I had tested the blog update on this notepad using the Vodaphone dongle - so this is it and it seems to be working o.k.
I have used this image again as it had already been reduced to a pratical size to fit the blog.

Getting Ready

2011-05-21T13:09:00.003+01:00

Only five days to go B4 we set off. :-) I have done an oil change including the filter and even bought a replacement (lesson learnt from May day hol, even got spare fuel filters). We are busy packing cloths and getting other things that will (I hope) make us self sufficient on our cruise (we will have RCR as a backup). I also hope to get the gunnels painted black rather than Middle Green as they have been ever since we bought the boat. It should make it easier to keep tidy. I have just received the NCCC Commodores Caldon Cruise itinerary so it looks like we will be at Bridge 85 on the Macc on Friday night all going well!.

Easter and May Day Bank holidays

2011-05-03T15:54:00.002+01:00

EASTER
We sailed from our moorings in Highlane to Bugsworth Basin on Thursday in the main to get a mooring as we knew there would be lots of boats there as the Nccc were having their annual competitions and would be putting on two evenings of entertainment. Both events were well attended as there was an open invitation for all boaters to attend the events as a fund raising effort for IWPS the group that look after and develop the basin.

Boats in the Middle Basin by the small arm.
Gralyn Moored in the Lower Arm
Boats in the lower basin

The weather stayed fine all the weekend and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. There was also contingents of boats from Tudor Boat Club ( Ashton Canal) and Stoke Boat Club (Caldon canal).
MAY DAY
Like most, for us the May Day Holiday started with the Royal Wedding and a BBQ at Highlane followed by a cruise to Whiteley Green by bridge 24 on the Macclesfield canal. After our BBQ on the Friday evening , Saturday was spent on an earlier than planned pre-summer maintenance session as the engine died at the start of the battery recharging session with fuel problems. Both water trap and engine fuel filters were filled with gunge. These were eventually replaced and the bottom of the fuel tank cleared of sludge and water ( not much as expected though we think that what there was had been moved as a result of the boat sitting on the bottom at its moorings). Still lesson learn, keep spare fuel filters on board and check them more frequently.

This Years Cruising Plans

We are joining the NCCC cruise to the Caldon Canal on the Spring Bank Holiday and then heading South and East to Lincoln and Boston with the intention of making a "New Run" on the South 40 ft Drain or Black Dyke as I think it is also called. The return will also include the River Soar and the GU Leicester section to Norton Junction (also a New Run). Once at Braunston plans are then open - depending on how we feel as the Thames is only a 3 day cruise away and we do like the Thames.

Next Blog entry should be as we set off on the Caldon trip

2011 The blog starts

2011-03-25T20:36:00.004Z

I hope that all the leaks caused by the low temperatures have been fixed. I found two - one behind the kitchen area cupboard and one in the toilet (You have guessed already haven't you) yes behind the cupboard again but you only had to be a contortionist to get to the first, the second required dismantling the cupboard first.

We have had two short cruises so far this year, one a short trip from High Lane to Higher Poynton and back and the other on the NCCC opening cruise to Bridge 20 and back. Both times the weather was fair with the rain stopping just a hour before the start of the Opening cruise.

Plans for this year include a trip to the Caldon Canal, Bugsworth Basin for Easter and for the main cruise Lincoln and the R Witham to Boston and onto the South 40ft Drain via the new tidal Link. After that on the return the R Soar through Leicester and up the Foxton Locks and on to Braunston and then ?????? who knows ------ the R Thames is only a few days away from there via the Southern Oxford Canal. Watch this space.

Summary

2010-08-06T18:57:00.003+01:00

I have been doing the sums and checked the log, we have done the following on our summer trip.

Miles 801.

Locks 414.

3 Long Tunnels - Braunston,Blisworth and Harecastle x 2.

7 Tidal Miles - 2 River Great Ouse and 5 River Thames.

and finally about 500 litres of Diesel.

Fools Nook to High Lane

2010-07-30T15:33:00.003+01:00

Miles 12.4 Locks 0
Shortly after we left Fools Nook we were proceeded along the canal by a Kingfisher, this is the first time for ages that this has happened on the Upper Macclesfield canal. A fitting tribute to our last day. We managed to get most of our gear off of the boat in the afternoon and evening without getting wet as there had been showers all day. It was nice to be home and see the ravages the dry weather had done to the garden. The Lettuce hand Cauliflower had bolted but the beans and raspberries are coming on fine with a crop of beans ready to pick. Just to prove we are gluttons for punishment we went to the NCCC club night to chat to those poor souls we had left behind almost 9 weeks ago. Now I have the task of counting locks and miles which will be reported shortly, Honest.

Rugely to Chatterley to Fools Nook

2010-07-28T19:10:00.004+01:00

Miles 15.3 Locks 13
Our hard work of yesterday paid off, we were 3rd in the queue for the tunnel and had a good run up the Macclesfield canal to Bosley locks where we finished our climbing to the Macc summit level. We were intending to moor close to the top of Bosley locks but all the deep moorings were taken so we went on to Fools Nook. We had expected the water level to be a lot lower than we found, though the going is now the slowest we have been doing for our normal cruising revs, particularly in the bridge holes. Final run to High Lane tomorow.
27/7/2010
Rugely to Chatterly
Miles 28 locks 15
Our hardest day so far we decided to do a "double day" to try to get home for Thursday afternoon or evening so that we would have Friday clear. As it turned out we needn't have bothered but we only found out after we had committed ourselves to the trip through Stoke on Trent. The queues at some of the locks were up to an hour long particularly at Colwick and later at Stone when everyone who had stopped for the heavy rain decided to set off after it had finished and just before we arrived.

Polesworth Rugely

2010-07-26T19:40:00.003+01:00

Miles 24.1 locks 5

Queues at both sets of locks Glascote and Fradley to be capped by two slow boats in front from Armitage Tunnel into Rugely.This is our 60 the day out on this trip and it also marks the start of our final climb that will end at Bosley top lock. We have also returned to the Trent & Mersey canal which prompted us to think of the canals we have been on this trip.

The Macclesfield. Trent and Mersey, Coventry, Birmingham & Fazely, Grand Union, GU Northampton Branch, Dukes Cut and the Oxford South and North, and of course The Middle Levels.

Ansty to Polesworth

2010-07-25T18:52:00.003+01:00

Miles 19.4 Locks 12
Another long run without locks So more pondering, this time on the state of the Northern Oxford canal between Braunston and Hillmorton and in particular Bridge 80 (if you can call it a bridge it is more like a hole in a heap of bricks). How BW safety team can examine the risk of collapse as negligible as they do, considering the only thing they have done is put two large floating fenders and a "Slow down" notice, beats me. The money they have spent on electricity lighting up Newbold Tunnel for the last two years would have paid for Bridge 80 repair or maybe even delaying the installation of bollards at narrow locks for a financial quarter to fix it. Rant Over.
we had arrived at the top of Atherstone Locks with a Q of 3 boats. we moored up and went shopping and when we returned no Q. That is until we had gone down the first two and caught up with the boats that had been at the top as we went shopping. I like lock 6 it is the only lock that I go through on a regular ( once a year or so regular) that has a working side pound. Most boaters seem to miss it and look at you with a blank expression when I ask if they used the side pound.
Finally we have passed two boats today that used to belong to NCCC members. The first just before Sutton stop on the N. Oxford, REGAL, and just after on the Coventry, SAPPHIRE, this used to be the boat belonging to Dennis and Barbara Shearer

At Ansty

2010-07-24T16:58:00.000+01:00

21/07/2010

Godstow to Upper Heyford

Miles 14 Locks 10

Our last few hours on the Thames ended at Kings Lock when we turned onto the Dukes Cut. The canal was very busy as soon as we got to Dukes lock there were boats queueing. Fortunately to come down as we were going up. For those who follow the Canalworld Discussion Forum we met Maffi at Thrupp just as we passed the lift bridge which has now been electrified. Later after we had moored up there came a tap on the roof and Mortimer Bones was passing and stopped for a chat.

22/07/2010

Upper Heyford to Banbury

Miles 12.1 Locks 8

We have now got used once again to the routine of travelling the narrow canals, the engine revs that gave us a comfortable 4 mph on the rivers now only produce speeds of up to 3 mph if we are lucky. I fitted a rev counter before we set of and I have been keeping to a constant revs rather than a constant speed. This seems to keep the diesel consumption down.

23/07/2010

Banbury to Napton Junction

Miles 22.4 Locks 20

The magnet of home exerts it pull ever stronger as we make our way north, We have had our longest day of cruising of this trip 11 hours. Today saw us reach Clayton top lock which is the summit of the climb we starter at Teddington on the Thames twelve days ago. It is downhill for now until we reach Fradley where we will begin our final climb to the Macclesfield canal top level. One more meeting with people only known via the internet. Today at Napton top lock by the Engine arm we met the crew of Harnser who have the distinction of being the only people to place a comment on this blog this year. We also passed and had a quick word with the crew of Shropshire Lass near the Folly pub just before Napton Junction.

24/07/2010

Napton Junction to Ansty

Miles 23.3 Locks 3

Not such an early start today and an early finish and still we get the miles in. At Braunston turn we completed the big circle we started on the 3^rd of June. The long run also gave us time to reflect on the trip and work out that we have cruised on part of the following rivers.

Nene, Great Ouse,Cam,Gade,Brent,Thames and Cherwell.

Abingdon to Godstow

2010-07-20T16:47:00.004+01:00

Miles 7.9 Locks 5

Sadly the pictures that I was going to use today have got lost in transfer. We did the laundry this morning in Abingdon and set off about 11 am only to be held at the lock to allow a Salters ferry to take precedent. We then did our water and pumpout so we finally left Abingdon by noon time. It seems to be a day of funny locking, the lock at Iffley was set to self operate and the locky at Godstow made us wait about 5 mins for two other boats to catch up. "To Save Water" he said.

Wallingford to Abingdon

2010-07-19T19:01:00.003+01:00

Yesterday Miles 13.2 Locks 4

We travelled from Wallingford to Abingdon yesterday and had a quick look round town. There was a show 0f MG cars in the market place and more on the field by the river bridge.
We are moored in what must be our favourite spot ( we have moored here every time we have visited the Thames and stayed for several days).
We took the bus into Oxford today rather than stop at Osney and go in from there. We usually go to the laundrette from the Osney moorings but now we are more familiar with the buses we have found the long walk to the laundrette at Abingdon can be done by bus that passes both ways every 10 mins. We will go there tomorrow before moving further upstream.

Pangbourne to Wallingford

2010-07-17T17:38:00.002+01:00

Miles 10.4 Locks 3

Another day of morning cruising and afternoon and overnight mooring. The two photos tonight show the new moorings at Wallingford. A bit disappointing as we expected a market only to find a single charity stall operating, still I got a couple of 00 gauge wagons for a couple of quid.

Wargrave to Pangbourne

2010-07-16T18:53:00.004+01:00

Miles 8.5 locks 4
One thing about missing an overnight stop at Henley is that it puts all the usual travelling timing out of kilter. We passed through Sonning a lot earlier than we have in the past and were rewarded with the light on the bridge being almost perfect for a good photograph. It looks good on the PC screen so I am hopeful that I will be able to get a good print when I get home. We stopped at Tesco at Reading and had lunch after shopping and then went over to Better Boats to top up with diesel. I went for quick look at the chandlers but found a cross between a charity shop and a second hand shop instead. At least the diesel was a very good price for the Thames at least 30p per litre than that being asked at the marinas near Windsor.

Still meeting unusual craft these two seemed to be having a sponsored pedalo cruise down the river they had 3 backup boats with them. We have moored on the National Trust meadow at Pangbourne, something that is also a product of a different start point. we even had time to have a snooze before walking to town to have a look around.

Marlow to Wargrave

2010-07-15T18:12:00.003+01:00

Miles 9.7 Locks 4

Two boaty pics tonight one that NCCC members will recognise Lady Avon is back in the water at Peter Freebody's boatyard at Hurley. It is nice to see that she is back in the water and I presume that the bad planking has been replaced.
The next pic you can only take around Henley close to the regatta date.
We stopped for a couple of hours in Henley but decided that the GBP 9.00 was a bit steep for overnight moorings so we went through Marsh Lock and moored alongside Wargrave Marsh just by Poplar Eyot. We are definitely back in Red Kite country, we have been seeing them at different locations all day. The earliest sighting was at Windsor a couple of days ago.

Windsor to Marlow

2010-07-14T19:29:00.003+01:00

Miles 13.3 Locks 5
We spent yesterday moored at the Baths Island in Windsor whilst we took the bus to Slough for some serious shopping. Today the run to Marlow only saw one shower at Cookham but there have been some heavy downpours since we arrived, in between the sun has been shining.
This view is looking upstream from Marlow lock, the weir is on the left. The next view of Marlow is looking downstream from our mooring.

Staines to Windsor

2010-07-12T18:24:00.003+01:00

Miles 8 Locks 3

The day started with us travelling with our waterproof jackets and long trousers on. It ended with T shirts and shorts again. We reached Windsor before lunch so we set off to explore the town after lunch. Tonight's pic is of one of the French's trip boats about to pass under the Slough to Windsor rail bridge

Hampton Court to Staines

2010-07-11T19:14:00.002+01:00

Miles 13 locks 5

This is what greeted us as we came up Molesey Lock this morning. All the locks we will go through are keeper operated and all we will have to do is pass up a rope before the gates are closed and the paddles lifted. The busiest by far today was Shepperton where we waited about 30 minutes as 14 craft of various sizes went up before us.
We cruised on to Staines our planned stopping place for tonight and eventually moored as shown , not before we had tried two other locations. One was too shallow the other we were right up against Staines road bridge so when the better moorings became available when the boats out for the weekend had gone off to their marinas we moved to our final place.

Bulls Bridge to Hampton Court Well Almost

2010-07-10T19:11:00.004+01:00

Miles15.5 Locks 12

We set off this morning at 7.am to make sure we were down at Brentford in time to catch the tide. It was a good thing we had because below the first lock we came too No 90 the pound below was empty. Here we are refilling it.

It cost us a good half hour to refill the pound to the satisfaction of the lock keeper and we made our way to Brentford and had enough time to stop at the services and do a pump-out, get water and have a shower too!. Then through the curiously named Brentford Gauging lock.And just after 12.45 we were on the tidal section heading for the Thames.

We had a great tidal cruise to Teddington hitting 6 mph at one stage. At Teddington we started our climb up locks that will end at Clayton top lock north of Banbury on the Oxford Canal but that is days away. Teddington lock with some cruisers the crew of the one in front had a fit when the lock keeper wanted me to move further forward.
After Teddington we passed Richmond and a Rowing regatta at Kingston and thought that the moorings at Hampton court would be full so we stopped a good 3/4mile short by the pavilion.

Harefield to Southall

2010-07-09T19:32:00.003+01:00

Miles 10 Locks 5

We are timing our run into Brentford to catch the afternoon tide so a short leg today to Bulls Bridge where the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal meets the main line. There is also a large Tesco so we stocked up on essentials and tried to keep cool. we have seen some strange boats on our travels but this is one of the more unusual.
The canal gets very industrial after about two miles of moored boats around Uxbridge so no good photo opportunities so our last pic of the day is of Uxbridge Lock.

Boxmore to Harefield

2010-07-08T19:06:00.004+01:00

Miles 12.8 Locks 21

The locks are spreading out a bit enabling us to get a few extra miles in today. We are moored above Black Jacks lock No 85. The lock and the cottage opposite Black Jacks Mill are shown below.

To Stoke Hammond to Marsworth to Boxmoor

2010-07-07T19:50:00.010+01:00

05/07/2010

Stoke Bruerne to Stoke Hammond

Miles 20.6 Locks 7

Today was dominated by the journey round greater Milton Keynes it is not until Fenny Stratford that the old places appear. Th lock at Fenny Stratford is the first rise since we left Stoke Bruerne but the rise is only about 4 inches however the lock is grand enough to have a bridge running right across the middle which has to be opened before you can pass through the lock. As the sign below shows there are very stern warning to anyone who wants to cross the bridge in a vehicle.
06/07/2010

Stoke Hammond to Marsworth

Miles 11.7 Locks 14

The day began with a disaster, the instruments gave all the indications that the drive belt to the alternator and water pump had come off or broken. On checking it was worse, a bracket that holds the alternator to the engine had fractured an this caused the belt to run slack. Pic of broken bracket below.
The plan was to run into Leighton Buzzard and find a place where the bracket could be repaired by welding it back together. The almost fairy tale part of the story is that within half an hour of setting off we came upon a floating blacksmith who re welded it up in about 5 minutes. See below.

The bracket was refitted when we moored up outside Tesco at Leighton Buzzard whilst the crew went and did the laundry and food shopping. I ill be keeping an eye on the fixings for the next few days. We moored for the night opposite the Dunstable Boat Club

07/07/2010

Marsworth to Boxmoor

Miles 11.9 locks 26

We are now in the heavy locked section of the Grand Union Canal and we have crossed the summit and it is downhill all the way to the Thames. Although we have seen plenty of wide beam boats they all seem to be of the Continuous Mooring type, this morning the exception passed us just before we reached the summit level.
Since we moored at Boxmoor we have see 3 motors and two motors with buttys passing loaded with gravel. we tried to find out where up the canal it was going but, maybe because us northerners cannot understand the local accents, we could not figure out where the cargo was going. If you know send an E-Mail to gralyn@fsmail.net

Cogenhoe to Stoke Bruerne

2010-07-04T18:46:00.008+01:00

Miles14.7 Locks 25 1 Long Tunnel

We are now of the River Nene moored 2 locks south of the Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne. The final trip in the river was not without incident as the photo below shows. This attached itself to the prop just as we were leaving Weston Favel lock, It stopped the engine dead and one prop blade was embedded so far I had to split the log to get it off. I suppose it can be called the river's revenge as I had wrongly stated that all locks above Wellingborough Upper lock were guillotine gates, this is not true the last 3 are mitre top and bottom.
After we had joined the B W Northampton Arm we passed the " Northampton Lighthouse" a disused lift testing tower. It is said that the next highest point due East is in the Ural Mountains in Russia.
The long Tunnel was Blisworth where Canal traffic travels both ways in the tunnel.
And finally the Waterways museum at Stoke Bruerne

Irthlingborough to Cognhoe

2010-07-03T19:49:00.003+01:00

Miles 11.8 locks 10

Our journey to Cogenhoe was interrupted at Wellingbouough for a visit to Tesco to top op vital supplies and get some food. The sections of the Nene on the approaches to the locks both upstream and downstream are very weedy. Thankfully the sections where there is a full flow of the river are in the main clear. The section of the river from Welllingborough to Irthlingborough seem to be a trial ground by EA for Lock Design. Three are Mitre gates top and bottom one of which has both paddles on the same side alongside each other, the other (Ditchford) has a horizontal radial gate. After Wellingborough the locks return to the Mitre gates at the top and a guillotine at the bottom.

Wadenhoe to Irthlingborough

2010-07-02T15:02:00.003+01:00

Miles 12.6 Locks 7

More wildlife spotting today, another snake and a mink, not in the same place though. It was noticeable that there were no wildfowl any where on the section of the river that the mink was on.

We had help through the lock at Irthlingborough as the power to operate the lock had failed and EA staff were operating it from a generator in the back of their Land Rover. I thought that the services a few hundred yards further upstream would be affected which would have been a bind as I wanted to do our last free pump out before we left EA territory tomorrow. All was well it was working. In all we have had five free pump outs whilst we ha been off the BW system which at GBP 10.00 each at BW prices we have saved GBP 50.00 on the Gold Licence we bought to use the EA System as well as BW this year. It would have been even more had we been paying at marinas

The promised pictures taken at Wandsford are attached, I do have a few more and some video if there are any requests for more.

The answer to my question regarding slackers and penstocks is that they are what are termed as paddles on the River Nene and most of the BW system

Fotheringhay to Wadenhoe

2010-07-01T16:43:00.003+01:00

Miles 11 Locks 7

Still in a bad area for pictures but managed this taster for now.
Wildlife watching takes up a lot of the time when steering the boat at 4 mph. Today was slightly different. I Saw A Snake swimming in rhe river. Checking out recognition book it turned out to be a grass snake that appears to go swimming quite often.

We also saw a Common Buzzard and a red Kite flying in close company which I think is unusual

For members of RMRC I really saw a SNAKE

Ferry Meadow to Fotheringhay

2010-06-30T19:22:00.004+01:00

Miles 15.6 locks 6

We stopped at the moorings by the Nene Valley Railway at Wandsford and went for a look around. The train running was made up of continental stock including the steam locomotive. Poor signal tonight means it is not worth trying to publish any pictures but I will have a SVR Bonanza issue later.

Whittlesea to Ferry Meadow

2010-06-28T20:24:00.005+01:00

Miles 9.9 Locks 2

We went through Stanground lock at 10.20 this morning just after Shep ( NB Vital Spark) had locked down onto the Middle levels. We are now back on the River Nene travelling upstream for the first time.
Just before we lock out of Stanground Lock back onto the Nene, the lock keepers instructions were "Mind your Head".

Question. What are called Slackers on the River Great Ouse andPenstocks on the Middle Levels?.

March to Whittlesea

2010-06-27T18:55:00.004+01:00

Miles 10.7 Locks 1

It has been far too hot to take pictures today. The Middle Levels gave us one more challenge with the weed just before Ashline lock though we just managed to get through the lock without a visit to the weed hatch. We moored up just after the lock opposite the leisure centre where we went for a swim after walking round the village. Although this village is the ancestral home of all the people who share my surname and knowing that there are still a large number of the same surname in the village we didn't come across any evidence in the church or churchyard. Talking to the vicar between christenings he acknowledged that the name was well known in the village but he omitted to say what for.

Still at March

2010-06-26T19:50:00.002+01:00

March to Wisbeach to Kings Lynn

By Bus

Looking towards the mouth of the river Great Ouse here it meets the Wash. The tide is definitely out
We went to Kings Lynn by bus via Wisbeach and had a look around. The new Vancover shopping centre was not there when we last visited in the early 70s to buy our first fridge but the Tuesday Market place is still recognisable.

Outwell to March

2010-06-25T17:53:00.007+01:00

Miles 8 Locks 1

As I have said before it is hard not repeating pictures when on an out and back trip. I hope this will suffice for today. A tale of two behinds. A Peacocks tail in the garden of the lock keeper at Marmont Priory.
And the tail of a mobile rocket launcher complete with rocket in field close to March. I think of USSR origins.

Brandon Creek to Outwell via Downham Market

2010-06-25T08:01:00.002+01:00

24/6/2010

Miles 16 Locks 4

A very pleasant day marred only by the amount of weed on the section of the Middle Levels between Salters Lode and Nordelph, it took 3 hours instead of 2. we arrived at Denver sluice quite early so we decided to lock down onto the relief channel and visit Downham Market. The ancient and modern can be seen in the town square.
Back to Denver Sluice and the passage on the tidal Ouse to Salters Lode. The Trip was on the rising tide or what there was of it (there was no perceptible flow to the river). The locking through Salters lode used the outer set of gates as against the inner ones used when we went upriver

Ely to Brandon Creek

2010-06-23T17:48:00.004+01:00

Miles 8.9 Locks 0

A lazy day today so no pics. We are moving down river slowly for out exit from the Great Ouse system at Denver Sluice tomorrow afternoon. We have decided to EAT OUT at the Ship Inn at the junction of the main river and Brandon creek (or The Little Ouse) we went for a walk down to Little Ouse farm where they are selling Diesel at 75p per ltr and, as usual when you don't have a camera they had just finished emptying their floating dry dock with the first paying customer inside the covered dock.

Wicken to Ely

2010-06-23T10:15:00.003+01:00

22/06/2010

Miles 6.3 Locks 1

An early start today as we wanted to get to Ely early to catch the bus to Cambridge. The view of the cathedral as you approach the city from the south is great.

As it turned out we waited for an hour and a half for the bus so we could have taken our time. Once in Cambridge we went on a tour of the city on an open topped bus, you get all the info on the locations and buildings that way and is save the poor old feet. Our return to Ely was via Newmarket withe all the "Rides" and the race course alongside the road.

Lazy Otter to Wicken Lode

2010-06-21T19:19:00.004+01:00

Miles 6.3 Locks 1

We have come onto the River Cam today for the first time and once again the character of the river changes. Wide water and wide views and in the main wide steel boats either of the canal narrow boat design or dutch barge design. We didn't stay on the Cam for long as we turned onto Reach Lode after about an hour and are now moored at the start of Wicken load. We decided that there might be too much weed so we walked to the National Trust Nature Reserve at Wicken Fen and then into the village.
Location TL54215 69691

St Ives to Old West River Lazy Otter Pub

2010-06-20T19:54:00.004+01:00

Miles 16.8 Locks 3

This is Holywell the last of the picturesque villages on our way down stream on the Great Ouse. shortly after this the river becomes tidal at Erith and the usual way back is via Hermitage Lock and the Old West River. I am still confused by Erith lock. when we went through on the way up I expected to lock down and we went up instead and this time I don't know what we did . It seemed that we went in, got the ropes on and the gates in front opened, no apparent change in level.
When we went through Erith we looked out for the seals but didn't see anything only the hear that there were 2 a short while later
Now at ref N 52.19.6 W 00.12.3 on the Old West River Close to the Lazy Otter Pub on the A10

Great Barford to Hemingford Grey to St Ives

2010-06-19T16:41:00.003+01:00

18/06/2010

Miles 22.1 Locks 7

After a great day at Great Barford the trip to Hemingford Grey was our first time downstream on the Great Ouse. We had a short stop at St Neots to pick up Groceries and a new mobile phone as mine is showing al the signs that the battery is about to fail.
Around 3pm it began to rain but on the plus side we were sharing locks with two cruisers which lightened the load locking. The rain had stopped by the time we arrived at Hemingford Grey and we were able to walk round this very attractive village.
19/06/2010

Miles 1.9 Locks 1

A short trip downriver to St Ives where the Civil War Re-enactment Society are Going to Blow up the bridge over the river ( well pretend to ). This is an annual event where the blowing up of the bridge during the English Civil war is commemorated.

St Neots to Great Barford

2010-06-17T15:20:00.003+01:00

Miles 8 Locks 3

Great Barford Church and Anchor Pub

Our plan to sail all the way up the River Great Ouse have been thwarted by a failure at Castle Mill Lock which has resulted in its closure. We are moored outside the Anchor pub in Great Barford a few miles short of Bedford as it offers the last place to moor that has road access as we are meeting Colleagues from the time I was employed by Texas Instruments who had their HQ in the UK in Bedford. Fortunately it is a very good mooring as the pictures that will follow will show, though it is quite a long walk to the single shop for an ice cream and the postcards will have to wait for a post box closer to the river, probably St Neots.
The river above St Neots has changed character again still wide deep water but now it is running with the hill a lit closer and the reaches are more enclosed with willow. The locks have changed too, they are now quite similar to canal locks with top and bottom mitre gates

Over to St Neots

2010-06-16T20:03:00.005+01:00

Miles 20.1 Locks 7
An 8 hour day today but it gained us some time on the journey to Bedford . We should be able to reach there or get close enough to meet up with some old work colleagues. Our first passing place of interest this morning was St Ives. The river is quite picturesque above St Ives at leas the equal to the Thames with small villages with thatched cottages and impressive stone churches instead of suburban towns with expensive riverside property. This pic is Hemingford Greys

We are moored on the council moorings just downstream of the St Neots Bridge alongside the Priory Centre.

CU GFS

Ely to Pike & Eel Pub (near St Ives)

2010-06-15T19:03:00.008+01:00

Miles 18.3 Locks 2

Photos from each end of our journey today, the first is the river frontage at Ely just before we set out. This is the GOBA mooring just upstream of the Pike & Eel pub just across the river from a village called Over. GOBA is the Great Ouse Boating Association. We were recommended to join as they have moorings up and down the river.

The trip has been one of contrasts, wide rivers at the start and end with the narrow bendy Old West River between Popes Corner and Hermitage Lock. The wildlife has changed too the wide rivers have terns and crested grebes whilst the narrow river had swans and mallards. At Ely there was a black swan swimming about and near 20 penny bridge we saw an oyster catcher.

In this shot we are alongside the Deisel dispensing boat at Westview Marina near Erith. I thought it was just a store for Junk until I went to the office and was told to moor the boat alongside "the cruiser with the pump in the cockpit

Salters Lode to Ely

2010-06-14T21:58:00.004+01:00

Miles 15.8 Locks 2
We have done our tidal section today crossing from Salters Lode to Denver Sluice on the ebb. Then a long run up to Ely for tea. We had a quick stroll into the city and went into the cathedral just as evensong had started. What a beautiful sound , the choir in the cathedral.
Tonight's pics Waiting to enter the Lock at Salters Lode. In the lock chamber waiting to lock up onto the ebbing tide. This I was prepared for - Locking DOWN on to the non tidal Great Ouse at Denver felt weird

In Ely it is almost like home we are under the approach flight path for one of the American airbases nearby. Either Lakenheath or Mildenhall

March to Salters Lode

2010-06-13T20:12:00.004+01:00

Poor signal tonight. I will add pictures to this page when a stronger signal is available.

Miles 13.3 Locks 1

A day of contrasts. We set out from March in the sunshine and arrived at Salters Lode in a downpour. The contrast between the open stretches of waterway and those running through the villages of Upwell, Outwell and Nordelph is great, in the villages the navigation is narrow and weedy ( 4 trips down the weed hatch today, two in Upwell and two just outside Nordelph) in the country they are wide and weed free in the centre. The other impression is that the land always appears to be below the level of the navigation and in some places it is very obvious that it is. The approach to Salters Lode is also interesting in that for the first time since coming onto the Middle Levels there are hills on the horizon.

This is our destination for tomorrow Denver Sluice seen from Salters Lode

Peterborough to March

2010-06-12T18:04:00.004+01:00

Miles 19.3 locks 3

We are now on the Middle levels at March. Two shots of the town moorings below. The navigation started narrow and weedy but soon we were in the big sky country with long straight stretches with a bend at the end very similar to the River Witham downstream from Lincoln.

We have checked with the lock keeper at Salters Lode for a time for locking through to Denver Sluice and the Great Ouse and we wont be able to get there for tomorrows passage so we will be going at 9.30 am on Monday.

Wadenhoe to Fotheringhay to Ferry Meadow

2010-06-11T19:00:00.007+01:00

Wadenhoe to Fotheringhay

Miles11.4 Locks 5

After a meal in the Kings Head at Wadenhoe and a nights sleep we travelled via a stop in Oundle for diesel to Fotheringhay. We moored below the castle mound and hoped that the spirit of Mary Queen of Scots (who was executed there) was not about. what we did get was a lady collecting GBP 4.00 mooring fees and spouting doom and gloom about the weather forecast for June
Fotheribghay to Ferry Meadow

Miles 16.1 locks 6

Ferry Meadow is a country park on the outskirts of Peterborough we are moored on pontoons at the side of a lake.

The Nene Valley Railway runs alongside the river and we saw a loco (a Class 5 ) moving out of Wandsford. It has been back and forth up and down all afternoon, probably on driver training as thee is no official timetable today and it never came as far as Ferry Meadow Station. For the railway buffs the next two photos show Nene Valley SETTRACK at 12" to the foot.

We will be leaving the River Nene tomorrow and entering the Middle Levels Navigation for the connection with the River Great Ouse.

Two days

2010-06-09T17:40:00.010+01:00

Tuesday 8/6/2010 Irthlingborough to Thrapston

Miles 9.7 locks 5

Started in the rain this morning and before we got to the lock the rain had eased but the prop was fouled with weed again so it was down the weed hatch to clear it off. The rain was coming on and off and the river improved. Near woodford we spotted a Red Kite for the first time and we continued to see them throughout the day. Stopped at Thrapston and went for a walk into the village.
Mooring by ThrapstonWednesday 9/6/2010 Thrapston to Wadenhoe.

Miles 5 Locks 2

Not far today as our travelling companions wanted to stop at their favourite moorings. A walk up to the church and later round the village soon showed us why.

Still at Irthlingborough

2010-06-07T19:09:00.003+01:00

We haven't moved today we have been to nearby Rushden where we lived between 1973 and 1985

visiting old acquaintances and looking at the changes to the town.

Cogenhoe to Irthlingborough

2010-06-06T19:12:00.004+01:00

Miles 12 Locks 10
We set off from Cogenhoe as the mist was clearing. the river was very weedy for the first 3 miles and one time I had to stop and clear the prop via the weed hatch. By the time we stopped in Wellingborough fo a visit to Tesco to top op the liquid refreshments the sun was just peeking through the clouds By the time we went Through Ditchford lock with the offal processing plant behind it was getting dark with a thunder storm in the offing.

It didn't take long to come and by the time we has passed Higham Lock and got to within hundreds of yards of the mooring beside the Rushden & Diamonds sports complex the heavens had opened. So we put the cover up in a downpour only to have it finish just as the covers were up.

On a more pleasant note it has been a good day for bird watching we have seen Common Terns, Common Buzzards (5), Cormorants (3) Kingfishers (2) and a solitary Tufted Duck

Gayton Marina to Cogenhoe

2010-06-05T21:19:00.003+01:00

Miles 10 Locks 23
We have reached the River Nene. We arrived in Northampton at midday and locked onto the river. On the way we passed under the M1 alongside Rothersthorpe services. This is how it looks under the motorway. The locks on the River Nene are quite different from those on the canals, the main difference can be seen in the next pic where the Mitre gates of the canals are replaced by a Guillotine gate. Thankfully most are electrically operated and all you do is press a button. We do expect to come across some that have to be raised by hand turning a wheel. I hope it is not my day for operating the locks when we meet one

We are now moored on the water meadow by Cogenhoe lock

Norton Junction to Gayton Junction

2010-06-04T18:59:00.003+01:00

Miles 12.7 Locks 7
The first pic really belongs to yesterday at sunset butit was taken at Norton junction our starting point for today. This will be aour last full day on the canals as we descend the locks of the Northampton flight onto the River Nene (pronounced Nen if you come from these parts). This afternoon at Gayton Marina. we will stay here and start our descent to the Nene tomorrow.

Brinklow to Norton Junction

2010-06-03T20:08:00.005+01:00

Miles 18.7 Locks 9 Long Tunnel 1
We came off the Northern Oxford Canal about lunch-time and headed south on the Grand Union Canal through Braunston Tunnel to Norton Junction where the Leicester arm leaves the main line. As with rest of the country it has been wall to wall sunshine today the factor 30 sun block went on before 8 am. Tho pics tonight of the locks at Braunstone.

Braunston Bottom Lock Lock No 3

Atherston to Brinklow

2010-06-02T20:36:00.004+01:00

Miles 20.4 Locks 10
A misty start to the day as we climbed the Atherstone flight into the town where we stopped for some provisions. As the day wore on we passed through Nuneaton and skirted the top of Coventry and onto the Northern Oxford Canal. We passed under the M6 at about 3 pm and moored up at Brinklow at 5.30.
The picture feature tonight is the Charity Dock boatyard at Bedworth. The pictures say it all. Pics will be loaded tomorrow poor connection tonight

Huddlesford Junction t Atherstone

2010-06-01T18:50:00.001+01:00

Miles 15.8 Locks 4
Only 4 locks today 2 just before lunch time at Glascote near Tamworth and the bottom two on the Atherston flight just before we moored up. We will be completing the ascent tomorrow with a pause below lock 5 to visit the shops in Atherston itself. For those readers who like to know exactly where we have been we have passed through “in the correct sequence” Whittington, Hopwas, Fazeley, Tamworth and its suburbs of Glascote and Ammington, Alvecote and Polesworth. For the aficionados of the railways these names may sound familiar as we are travelling alongside the West Coast Main line.
Have you ever wondered why it is always hard to put dry gloves on wet hands which has been the story of my life today steering in the rain , which, I think we have all had today. Changed gloves once because of them being soaked and numerous times to get things from my pocket. Still the forecast is for improvement from now on. I hope so I would hate it if we had one rainy day out of three for the next two months.

Weston Lock to Huddlesford Junction

2010-05-31T18:53:00.003+01:00

Miles 19.5 Locks 7
We are now near Litchfield where the Coventry Canal meets the derelict Wyrely to Essington Canal. No pics tonight but a couple of links to the RSPB site showing a couple of birds we don't normally see on the Macclesfield Canal.
The Reed Bunting http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/r/reedbunting/index.aspx Just before Huddelsford Junction on the Coventry Canal and the Tufted Duck http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/t/tuftedduck/index.aspx Just after Weston Lock. Fradley was busy as usual withe the added congestion of two sets of boats breasted up close to one another but on opposite sides of the canal. Still the Ice cream bought at the junction made up for that.

Chatterley to Weston Lock

2010-05-30T20:46:00.005+01:00

Miles 19.9 Locks 16
At least the rain held off today bu it was quite windy. The Trent and Mersey canal between Stoke and Weston has been quite busy with one boat passing as I write this update at 3 mins to nine. We had heard of the anti-vandal locks that had been fitted to Etruria and Trentham locks and the first picture is of the one at Etruria. Anyone with a Dalton windlass will have problems at the lock mechanism prevents the windlass from turning a full circle once it has been placed all the way on the Spindle. We had to queue at the Meaford locks for at least one boat using the lock in front. Here we are waiting for the third lock down on the flight.

High Lane to Chatterley

2010-05-29T14:39:00.005+01:00

Two days report as there was no connection last night
28/05/2010 Miles 13.7 locks 0
A nice run in the sun from High Lane to Bosley. Didn't start untill after 12 noon as we waited in vain for the pump-out cards to arrive. at least the weather was kind to us. The picture is of the Mill at Bollington with the new bridge at the front.
29/05/2010
Miles 12 locks 13 and one long Tunnel
What a contrast in the weather, the driest we have been today was when we were in the Harecastle Tunnel. So no pictures today. We are moored at the southern end of the tunnel at Chatterley.

One day to go

2010-05-27T15:26:00.003+01:00

We have made three trips to the boat today loading up for the summer cruise on which we hoped to set off tomorrow morning. Unfortunately the two BW Pump -out cards I ordered last week failed to arrive in the post today so we will have to wait for tomorrows post before catching the bus to High Lane.
We also heard that with the water levels on the Macc being about 3 inches down the crew of Discovery No1 had to discharge their drinking water before the could get out of the High Lane Arm. This made me check our situation and we were hard aground on the bows so I decided to pull away from the edge and only suceeded after several minuits of hard heaving.

May Day

2010-05-04T22:11:00.004+01:00

We spent the May Day Bank Holiday at Whiteley Green on the Macclesfield Canal. We went on the Friday and returned on the Monday. The moorings belong to the NCCC and two large gazebos were set up to have a space for people to gather and chat. there was heating provided and lighting was by two Tilley Lamps. Quite a few club members turned up, the BBQ was light on Saturday and Sunday for people to cook their own food. On Sunday members with a musical bent gave a show.

Boats moored @ Whiteley Green Br 24 Macclesfield Canal.

Final Green Lane Update

2010-04-28T23:53:00.002+01:00

From the following sequence of pictures you can see Green Lane Aqueduct on the Lower Peak Forest Canal in Romiley after repair work to fix a serious leak. As you may recall two separate attempts were made or the second visit was planned as the pointing of the wall where the most water was coming through was not done until after the first visit. There is still a small "weep" in the arch of the aqueduct

The spot where most of the remedial work was carried out.

Looking North towards Woodley Tunnel

Looking South towards Hyde Bank tunnel.

As I pass this spot quite regularly I will watch for further activity and report if there are any significant changes.

Back in the water

2010-04-25T16:46:00.004+01:00

We relaunched the boat earlier today after a week of cleaning and blacking the bottom. It is a very satisfying feeling to see the boat gently slip back into the water, now all we have to do is get the rest of the boat ready for the summer cruise.